Key Players Begin Pre-Season Preparations
Liverpool duo Virgil van Dijk and Cody Gakpo have commenced their pre-season training at the club’s AXA Training Centre. The players reported for duty on Tuesday, having been granted additional time off following their involvement with the Netherlands at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This marks a significant step in their preparations for the upcoming season.
Head coach Andoni Iraola had previously indicated that Van Dijk, Gakpo, and goalkeeper Alisson Becker would return to training later than other squad members. Their pre-season work is now underway at the AXA Training Centre, allowing them to follow individual schedules under the supervision of Liverpool staff. This approach reflects the modern pre-season calendar, which prioritizes rest and load management alongside tactical development.
The Netherlands internationals were part of the squad that exited the World Cup at the last-32 stage after a penalty shootout loss to Morocco. While Liverpool players typically receive three weeks off after international tournaments, Van Dijk and Gakpo were given extended leave. Gakpo reportedly received further time off on compassionate grounds. Van Dijk, who turned 35 earlier this month, played extensively last season and featured in all four of the Netherlands’ World Cup matches.
Squad Split Between US Tour and Home Training
Liverpool’s pre-season schedule is currently divided, with one group of players participating in a tour of the United States. This group is engaged in matches and commercial activities. Meanwhile, Van Dijk and Gakpo are undertaking their initial pre-season work at the AXA Training Centre in Kirkby, away from the tour. They are not expected to join the squad in the United States.
The team on the American tour has already played one match, securing a 4-2 victory over Sunderland in Nashville. Upcoming fixtures for the touring squad include games against Wrexham in New York and Leeds United in Chicago. For Iraola, the focus of these July matches is on building rhythm, ensuring player fitness, and familiarizing the squad with his methods, rather than solely on results.
Other Netherlands international Ryan Gravenberch, along with Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak, joined the squad earlier in the United States. Their earlier return was due to their respective World Cup campaigns concluding sooner. These players started training at Chicago Fire’s Endeavour Performance Centre and could feature in the upcoming match against Wrexham in New York.
Gravenberch expressed his satisfaction with his holiday, stating he spent it well with his family and felt recharged. He mentioned not thinking about football during his time off, which he felt was necessary after a long season that included the World Cup. He also noted the positive atmosphere among the players in the United States, with training sessions described as intense yet enjoyable.
Looking Ahead to Home Friendlies
Once the United States tour concludes, Liverpool is scheduled to return to Anfield for a series of home friendlies. These matches will include fixtures against AS Monaco and Como. These games are anticipated to bring the full squad together and offer a clearer indication of Iraola’s preferred lineup for the new season.
Van Dijk and Gakpo are expected to build their fitness individually before integrating with the wider squad later in the pre-season. Van Dijk remains a central figure for Liverpool, and Gakpo’s return provides another senior attacking option. The pair reported for duty on Tuesday to begin pre-season testing and are anticipated to be included in the squad that will host Monaco at Anfield on August 9.
Following the match against Monaco, Liverpool will face Italian side Como in two consecutive games at Anfield. The first of these two encounters is planned to be played behind closed doors. The ongoing pre-season activities, whether in New York, Chicago, or at the AXA Training Centre, indicate that Liverpool is not waiting for all players to arrive simultaneously to begin their preparations.
The structured return of players like Van Dijk and Gakpo highlights the club’s careful planning for the season ahead, ensuring that all players are adequately prepared. The pre-season schedule is designed to manage player load and integrate them back into training effectively. The match against AS Monaco is scheduled for August 9.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
